To be a good person
(RH raised, LH under right elbow),
Knowledge of the mind
(RH points to head),
Honesty in the heart
(RH touches heart),
Strength in the body
(RH makes a muscle),
To make good friends
(Extended handshake),
And to get my black belt.
(Tug on belt)

Any member of ATA. There are divisions for all ages, white through black belts.

Who would I compete against?

The divisions are divided by age, rank, and size within those categories, provided there
are enough competitors.

What would I do?

White, orange and yellow belts compete in two categories, forms and one-steps. They are
judged on their knowledge of material, technique, and attitude. Trophies are awarded for
first through third place in each category. In the children's' divisions, all children
receive a trophy. It is ATA's philosophy that we reward the effort to prepare for competition,
thus any child not placing first through third receives a fourth place trophy. Camo belts
through black belts do forms and spar. Trophies are awarded for each category also.

What do I need to bring?

Bring your uniform and belt. White gym shoes will be needed to wear around during the
day with your uniform. You compete barefooted. Camo belts and up need sparring gear, head
gear, foot gear, hand gear, mouthpiece, and protective cup for males.

How do I register?

Tournament fees are payable to your instructor by the Thursday before the tournament.
Your instructor will register you. At the tournament, locate your instructor to receive your
competitor's card.

What about spectators?

Spectators are welcome to watch. There will be a fee payable at the door. Fees may vary.

How long will it take?

ATA Tigers and Children compete first. Once they are done competing, they will receive
their trophy. They are dismissed at this time and may leave or stay for the remainder of
the tournament. Adults and black belts are usually later in the day. Black belts are expected
to stay and help with judging or scorekeeping.

What about ATA Tigers?

ATA Tigers are a special division. We call this introduction to competition. All ATA
Tigers will receive the same size trophy. Instead of placement, they are awarded based on
performance. For instance, strongest kicks, strongest hand techniques, loudest ki-hap, etc.
Our goal is to create confidence in public performance. Once they progress to the junior
level, they will learn competition and placing. There is also a black belt assigned to the
ring to assist any Tigers.

Why should I compete?

This question varies with the individual. The one thing I can say is that those who
compete usually stay with Taekwondo longer. But another very important reason is it teaches
the individual to perform under uncertain conditions, similar to what would happen in an
attack situation. I t also teaches us about public performances and prepares us for other
forms of public appearances. For others, it's just a love of competition. For adults, there
are few opportunities after a certain age in many sports to compete.

Good Deed Sheets are designed to encouarge young taekwondo students to be responsible and considerate. Each sheet must be fully completed with the a date and description for each unsolicited good deed as well as an adult's signature. ATA Tigers and Karate for Kids are required to submit four fully completed Good Deed Sheets prior to testing in order to receive their rank at Promotionals.
Click here for two Good Deed Sheet forms.